Southgate suffered a stress fracture of an ankle during the 1-1 draw at Manor Park last weekend which will sideline him for around three months.

The 35-year-old, who had a tough time against Murphy and conceded the penalty for the equaliser and was fortunate not to concede another, was expected to recover but when the injury failed to clear up Middlesbrough's medical team became concerned.

Murphy said: "I'm gutted for him as he was a real gentleman on Saturday, on and off the pitch. I would not wish an injury on anyone, particularly such a good professional like Gareth.

"He was Middlesbrough's main talker and organiser and they will certainly miss him.

"I rate him among the best central defender in the Premiership."

Southgate's problem has forced the transfer of Ugo Ehiogu to West Brom from the Teessiders to collapse.

Ehiogu, 33, passed a medical at The Hawthorns and was expected to re-join Albion where he kicked off his career. However, he's believed to be determined to join the Baggies despite Middlesbrough pulling the plug on the deal.

Should he face Murphy next Tuesday, the Boro man will have no fears.

"He's another England international but a different type of player to Southgate. He relies on a more physical presence and I shall have to adapt my game but it should be another great experience." n Terry Angus has committed himself to the club for the rest of the season although he will be rested for Saturday's away trip to Redditch United.

And that decision has persuaded manager Roger Ashby not to take up the option on former Coventry City centre-back Sean Cooney, who is expected to return to Bohemians in Ireland. n Boro Reserves drew 1-1 with Burton Albion's second string at Manor Park last night. Their goal came from an Ian Foster penalty.

* Should Boro beat Middlesbrough their tie at Coventry City will not be televised live.